Beef Empanadas Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
• 1/2 cup cold water

For the filling:

• 1 tablespoon oil (olive oil, vegetable oil, etc.)
• 1/2 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 lb ground beef
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped (optional)
• 1/4 cup green olives, chopped (optional)
• Raisins, a small handful (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
   • Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Gradually add cold water and mix until the dough comes together.
   • Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, sauté until onions are translucent.
   • Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
   • Season with cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
   • Add chopped hard-boiled egg, olives, and raisins if using. Mix well. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.
3. Assemble the Empanadas:
   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
   • Using a round cutter or a small plate, cut circles from the dough (about 4-6 inches in diameter).
   • Place a spoonful of the beef filling in the center of each circle.
4. Fold and Seal:
   • Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape.
   • Press the edges together to seal and use a fork to crimp the edges.
5. Bake:
   • Place the assembled empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
   • Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown.

Nutritional Information (Approximate, per empanada):

Please note that these values can vary based on ingredient brands and specific quantities used.

• Calories: ~250-300 kcal
• Carbohydrates: ~20-25g
• Protein: ~8-10g
• Fat: ~15-20g
• Fiber: ~1-2g

For a more accurate nutritional breakdown, it’s recommended to use a nutritional calculator or app with your specific ingredient quantities and brands.